photo: ©Rentokil

Termite FAQs

What do Termites Look Like?

©Rentokil
Subterranean termites (those most commonly seen in homes) are a similar size to a black ant except they are pale in colour. That’s why they are often called “white ants”. If you look closely, termites have two sections to their body while ants have three. Soldier termites have a slightly darkened, or brown, head. You will also see termites with wings, called alates. Sometimes confused for moths, the allates fly out from the colony in search of a new environment in which to reproduce and develop a new colony. Subterranean termites are only one of the termite families found in Australia. See our guide to termite species for more facts and information about other species.

Are white ants and termites the same?

Yes, termites are sometimes known as white ants, although the term “termites” is more accurate. Our white ant treatment services are therefore exactly the same as our termite treatments.

Do termites eat treated pine?

No, they do not, but they can use treated logs and footings as a bridge into your house.

Are termites covered under home insurance?

No. Most home insurance policies do NOT cover damage done by termites. As 1 in 4 Australian homes are affected by termites in their lifetime, it pays for you to be vigilant.

How do I get rid of termites?

If you discover termites in your home, you should not attempt to get rid of them yourself. If termites are disturbed, they will simply re-route their activity to another area of the house.

Is ‘Do It Yourself’ termite control an option?

DIY termite control or DIY termite treatment is a bad idea, as identifying the termites is a very important step towards successfully treating termites. DIY termite traps are not effective, as disrupting termites could mean that they re-route to attack another area of your home.